Real Festival draws record attendance on its return to Penrith

Council is thrilled to announce that Real Festival 2023 exceeded all expectations, drawing 50,000 attendees over the course of the festivities.

The incredible line up of free live music, performers, workshops, market stalls and food vendors drew a record crowd to the event, held at Tench Reserve, along the Nepean River, from September 15-17.

After a three-year hiatus, Real Festival made a triumphant comeback, cementing its place as a cultural extravaganza and a major economic driver that benefits local businesses and the broader Penrith community. By showcasing the region's cultural and artistic assets, Real Festival bolsters Penrith's reputation as an exciting destination for residents and tourists alike.

Audiences of all ages enjoyed an exhilarating experience with an exceptional lineup of diverse and immensely talented local performers from Penrith, the Blue Mountains, and Western Sydney. The Real Festival program also included a host of engaging workshops, catering to a wide range of interests and ages, some of the best food trucks from the Penrith region and beyond, and an eclectic range of market stalls from local creatives, with many stall holders completely selling out of all their products.

Former Penrith Mayor Tricia Hitchen said this year’s Real Festival was a fantastic success.

"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Council staff, volunteers and every member of our community who contributed to making this year's Real Festival a resounding success. Your dedication and support have made a significant impact." Cr Hitchen said.

An event like Real Festival is not possible without the support and interest of Penrith’s local suppliers, market stall holders, performers and vendors who participated in the event.

Penrith’s Rusty Penny Brewery was one of the suppliers keeping Real’s festival bar stocked over the weekend, and owners Matt and Mark jumped at the opportunity to be involved in this year’s event.

“We are the beer of Penrith. Being involved in the Real Festival was a no brainer. Serving local beer to locals is our passion.” Matt said.

Among the line-up of artisan market stalls was Erskine Park resident Christine Daniels from Mrs D’s Succulents, who was a winner at the recent St Marys/Mt Druitt Local Business Awards, taking out the category for Outstanding Specialised Retail Business. “This event is such an exciting time for a lot of people. It’s Spring, it’s warming up and people love coming together, and what better way than as a community supporting other local businesses. Real Festival was an amazing experience this year and the support from the community was incredible.”

Real Festival is poised to contribute even more to the region's economy and community vibrancy in future years as a staple of Penrith’s cultural calendar. The event's ability to support local vendors, promote cultural expression, and attract visitors is a testament to the power of creativity and community spirit.

Keep up to date with the 2024 dates via the Real Festival social pages:

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